Bluebird K7 Returns to Coniston, 70 Years After Donald Campbell’s First Record There.

This month, seventy years after Donald Campbell first set a world water speed record on Coniston Water, his jet hydroplane Bluebird K7 returns to that same stretch of water.

Bluebird K7 The Festival runs from 11th to 17th May 2026 at the Boating Centre, Coniston.

K7 will run alongside Bluebird K3. I will be there as a volunteer. It is a privilege to play a small part in something like this. The team there have achieved so much.

The Campbell story pushed British engineering to its limit. Donald Campbell remains the only person to break both the land and water speed records in the same year. The world water speed record today stands at 317 miles per hour. Donald Campbell reached 276. K7’s return is not just about heritage and remembrance. Running the craft is serious business, and this period will be key familiarisation, allowing the crew and pilots to operate the boat at speed.

Longines have helped by sending vintage timing equipment and Chrono24 have made a dontation. Racelogic have supplied a modern Vbox timing system.

I am honoured to be giving a talk during the festival:

Kings of Speed: The Campbell Dynasty and the Art of Timing
Wednesday 13th May, 7.30pm

All proceeds support the project and its associated charity work.

Tickets:

https://bluebirdk7thefestival.co.uk...and-the-art-of-timing-a-talk-by-alan-bessant/

They were specal times, pushing the boundaries and inspiring generations. There is a strong Australian link to this event, Dave Warby, son of the current record holder is due to pilot K7 if all goes to plan. It is not a record attempt but the boat will need to go 100mph plus to lift the nose.

Its just been on one again, came back yesterday in convoy with its new engine. Imagine it made a few peoples day. Unmistakable shape even under its blue cover. No many who can say they have gone faster :0)